During the same time with 〜間(に)
間(に) joins two clauses to state that the second (main) clause takes place at the same time as the first (subordinate) clause.
The clauses may have different subjects.
間 may attach to a noun, adjective, or verb. The verb before 間 is normally non-past 〜て＋いる or いる.
When two clauses are joined by 間, they typically cover the same span of time. When に follows 間, the main clause occurs within the same time as the subordinate clause.
English counterparts are “during (the time when)” and “while”.
See also
- For concurrent events, 〜ながら is used.
- When refering to a period of time, especially when taking advantage of an opportunity, 〜うちに is used.
- When contrasting with another period of time, 〜うちは is used.
Examples
Further Reading
- Makino, Seiichi and Michio Tsutsui. A Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar, The Japan Times Ltd., 1989, pp. 67–71